早め
Meanings
1
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', na-adjective, noun
early; a little earlier than usual
Describes doing something ahead of the usual or expected time; often used with に as an adverb. The 早め spelling is typical.
Let's leave home a little early tomorrow.
Please contact us at your earliest convenience.
2
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', na-adjective, noun
a little faster than usual; slightly quicker
Used when increasing speed or pace slightly; 速め is the preferred kanji. Often appears as 速めに or 速めの.
Please walk a little faster.
I set the tempo of the song a bit faster.
Usage patterns
- 早めに〈動詞〉to do something a little earlier than usual
I plan to leave home a little earlier than usual tomorrow.
- 早めの〈事〉an earlier-than-usual (action/measure)
Taking early measures is important.
- 速めに〈動詞〉to do something a bit faster than usual
I walked a bit faster since I thought I might be late.